But while you might believe that youre limited to games in the Steam library, youre not.
Incredibly, both of these services can be installed.
Heres how to install titles from Epic Games and GOG on Steam Deck.
What Is Heroic Games Launcher?
However, using Heroic Games Launcher is not the only method.
Another option is to load the GOG client on Steam Deck.
Unfortunately, this is a tedious process that can take up to an hour to complete.
In addition, there is an alternative called Lutris (which covers all Linux gaming options).
Heroic Games Launcher is a simpler approach that enables you to start playing games sooner, rather than later.
If youre planning to install extra non-Steam games on Steam Deck,consider a microSD card for additional storage.
A Class 10 SDXC card is best for this, including any branded for the Nintendo Switch.
This is a particularly wise idea of you opted for the cheaper 64GB Steam Deck model.
Is It Safe to Install Non-Steam Games on Your Steam Deck?
If youre concerned about breaking warranty or have some other reason to be concerned, dont worry.
A Steam Deck is capable of running most PC games, including those on Epic Games.
You may have noticed some crossover between the Epic Games and the Steam libraries.
Epic Games has given many games away over the past few years.
Furthermore, theProton compatibility layer softwareis regularly updated and ensures support for many Windows games.
In short, its completely safe to install non-Steam games on your Steam Deck.
How to Install Heroic Games Launcher on Steam Deck
Start by accessing Steam Decks desktop mode.
This is theDiscoverapp, a software store.
Click to open, then enter heroic in the search bar.
Heroic Games Launcher should be displayed.
ClickInstall, and wait for the process to complete.
Because most GOG games are pre-2005 titles, they have varying compatibility requirements for Steam Deck.
To tweak these, highlight the game and click theSettingscog icon.
In the Heroic Games Launcher, clickManage Accountsthen on the Epic Games panel tapLog in.
key in your Epic Games account credentials and if you havetwo-factor authenticationset up this will also be required.
If there is a problem, the correct prefs can usually be found online.
Note that it may inform you the unit is incompatible, but you dont need to worry about this.
This will reboot the Steam Deck into the main console interface.
In the following screen, selectPlayto launch the launcher.
it’s possible for you to then either select a game to play or install a new one.
Once you’re bored with a game, you could uninstall it.
Is a game missing from your library?